Catarina, Nicaragua 🇳🇮
#2042
,
Nomad Score:
55%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Catarina is a picturesque town located near Lake Nicaragua, known for its stunning views and volcanic landscape. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 7,000 residents, providing a small community feel. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed in Catarina is around 20 Mbps, suitable for basic remote work. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 35 NIO. Local currency is the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO). ATMs are available but may charge higher fees for international withdrawals. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable. It's recommended to buy bottled water. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 120V, 60Hz, with Type A/B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Movistar and Claro offer good mobile coverage, with prepaid SIM cards available at local shops. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Revolut and Wise are popular among expats for online banking. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from hostels to local guesthouses. Airbnb is also popular. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Cash is preferred, but some places accept cards. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local vacation rentals available, with prices from $25 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Los Chicos, approximately $10 per night, offers budget options. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Lake viewpoint areas and local markets are recommended for tourists. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Homes near the lake with good internet connectivity are ideal. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Selina, located in nearby San Juan del Sur, is a popular coworking space. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe de la Isla offers a calm environment and Wi-Fi, perfect for remote work. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Spot notifications on digital nomad groups on Facebook for local meetups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Community gatherings through expat groups on social media. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; Uber is not operational but local rides can be arranged. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bikes can be rented from local shops. Expect rates around $5 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | San Juan del Sur beach, about 30 minutes away, is popular. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Avianca provides service to major cities. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and Delta Airlines operate flights to Managua. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Paved roads connect to major destinations and the Pan-American Highway. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Public transport options include local buses and shuttles; no train service. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No fixed passes; pay per trip, usually around $0.50. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Bus services like TicaBus connect to surrounding regions. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Hospital San Juan in San Juan del Sur is the nearest reliable facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Retreat offers yoga classes with a focus on wellness. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local parks are available for workouts; gym memberships in San Juan del Sur vary. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats offer services, usually around $5 per load. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Talabat and local delivery options are available. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Gallo pinto is a must-try local dish. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Cafe de la Isla offers a variety of vegetarian meals. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | El Buen Cafe has excellent pastries and desserts. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets provide fresh produce and affordable goods. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon ships to Nicaragua with extra shipping fees. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Local supermarkets offer delivery services, with options like Maxi Despensa. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The area around San Juan del Sur has bars and music venues. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Brewery El Salvador offers local beers for sampling. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wines from local vineyards are available at restaurants. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Various local vendors sell snacks by the lake. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizzerias and taco shops offer international options. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The viewpoint at Mombacho Volcano is breathtaking. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Local artisan shops display Nicaraguan art nearby. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Catarina is rich in local history, with colonial architecture to explore. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Church of Catarina is notable within the town. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Feria patronal de Catarina is a celebrated local festival. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Artisan market areas showcase local crafts and craftspeople. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Occasional performances are held in local community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The local market features handmade goods and produce. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local bars often host live music events, especially on weekends. |
| 🎨 Street Art | There are murals celebrating local history around town. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Classes on traditional Nicaraguan cooking are offered at local schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local artists showcase work in various small galleries. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Colonial buildings in the town center are significant. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The area is celebrated for its indigenous heritage and traditions. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | The Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve provides stunning natural scenery. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Volcan Masaya National Park is nearby, ideal for exploration and hiking. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Paths around the lake are popular for walking and biking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Many viewpoints around Lake Nicaragua offer breathtaking views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The reserve offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas by the lake are popular for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Western Union and DHL provide reliable services. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops in San Juan del Sur can assist with minor repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have tables available for play. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Spanish language schools offer classes for expats. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Local community centers offer quiet study areas. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Cultural events are hosted regularly at local centers. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | There are private gaming rooms available in San Juan del Sur. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No major casinos, nearest located in Managua. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per m² for studio apartments in the area. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per m² for studio apartments further from the center. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per m² for 1-bedroom apartments. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $900 per m² for 1-bedroom apartments outside the main areas. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,000 per m² for 2-bedroom apartments. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $850 per m² for 2-bedroom apartments in suburban areas. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 25% for corporations operating in Nicaragua. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% on dividends distributed by Nicaraguan corporations. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Worldwide income basis for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 30% for individual income over $66,000. |
| 🧾 VAT | 15% standard Value Added Tax. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, specific rules govern foreign entities. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax rates are nominal, based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Approx. 1% on property transactions. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Nicaragua offers special incentives for working expats, including lower tax burdens on foreign income. |